Graduate Admission Information
Our graduate program in the School of Art, Art History & Design offers rigorous academic training, unparalleled resources and an expansive community of scholars and artists.
Master of Fine Arts
With an MFA, you’ll enter an intensive, immersive and rigorous program that helps you emerge ready to shape the future of contemporary art.
Art graduate students will select an emphasis in one of the following areas:
Application Process
Applying to our graduate programs is a multi-step process designed to assess your readiness for advanced study and your potential to contribute to our academic community. The two-part application includes:
Part One: Online Application for Admission
- Online Application for Graduate Admission
- A $50 non-refundable application processing fee
- College/University transcripts (digital upload)
- Verification of English proficiency
- If you are not a US citizen and you expect to hold an F or J visa: financial resource information
- Three recommendation letters (you will be asked to provide the names and email addresses for those writing a letter on your behalf. Each person will receive an email with instructions for online letter submission).
- Artist Statement
- A Statement of goals and objectives (uploaded in PDF format)
Part Two: Portfolio Submission
Students will upload a portfolio of 20 images (complete with titles and descriptions) to the Hixson-Lied College of Fine & Performing Arts Slideroom© portal. A link is provided within of the Office of Graduate Studies application for admission. Complete instructions including images size and formats, are provided on the Slideroom© site.
Once the entire application is complete it will be forwarded to the School of Art, Art History & Design faculty members for review. Applicants will be notified as soon as admissions decisions are complete.
Visiting Nebraska
We strongly encourage prospective graduate students to visit our campus to explore our facilities, meet with faculty, and experience the dynamic environment within the School of Art, Art History & Design. Campus visits offer an excellent opportunity to get a sense of the community and resources available to you as a graduate student. Virtual visit options are also available for those unable to travel to Lincoln.
For specialized information about a specific studio specialization or if you would like to arrange a campus visit, please email the corresponding faculty.
Connect with Faculty
Contact Us
We’re here to help you navigate your application journey and answer any questions you may have. For more information about the application process, program details, or funding opportunities, please reach out to our graduate admissions office 402-472-5522 or email by using the button below.